How to make a bar of soap last longer

A good bar of soap should not melt into a puddle in two weeks. A few easy habits stretch each bar a lot further.

Keep it dry between uses

This is the big one. Every product page for our bars says the same thing: keep the bar dry between uses to help extend its longevity. A bar that sits in water keeps dissolving long after you have finished washing.

Use a draining soap dish

A dish with slats or ridges lets water run off and air reach the bottom of the bar. Avoid a flat dish or a closed container that holds water. Place it out of the direct spray of the shower if you can.

Do not over-wet it

Wet the bar, work up a lather, and rinse. You do not need to hold it under running water. A richly lathering bar such as Coconut Beach Soap builds lather quickly, so a few passes is plenty.

Rotate your bars

If you own more than one, alternate. Each bar gets more time to dry, and they all last longer. This is one reason people like sets: the Fresh & Clear 3-Bar Soap Trio gives you three 4 oz bars to rotate.

Store spares somewhere cool and dry

Keep unused bars in a dry spot, such as a drawer or closet shelf, away from steam. Harder, drier bars tend to last longer in use.

Use the right bar for the job

The Exfoliating Luffa Bar has natural luffa for light texture. Use gentle pressure and it will last longer than if you scrub hard. Keep it dry between uses like the rest.

A quick routine

Lather, rinse, shake off the water, set it on the draining dish. That is all. If you want to explore more bars, see our bundles or take the 60-second quiz.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my soap get mushy?

Usually because it sits in standing water. A draining dish and some airflow fix most of it.

Should I keep soap in the shower?

You can, as long as it has a draining dish and is not in the direct spray.

Does a bigger bar last longer?

Our bars are 4 oz (113 g), except Kojic Acid & Turmeric at 3.5 oz (99 g). How you store and use a bar usually matters more than the size.